Misery over as street repairs are finished (From Gazette Series)

Misery over as street repairs are finished

THE CONTINUING saga of Cam High Street has finally reached a conclusion, after three months of misery for local traders.

Severn Trent Water, which has been repairing sewage works in the area, removed its much-maligned road block from the street on Monday after completing its work on schedule.

The move has delighted local shopowners and businesses, who have been cut off from the rest of Cam since the beginning of the year.

They say they have suffered huge financial losses and want to put the episode firmly behind them.

Jeremy Clutterbuck, director of LW Clutterbucks, said: "Trade seems to be back to normal - within a day it had almost doubled.

"Severn Trent looked like they weren't going to make it but they worked hard to get it done on time. They promised April 2 and delivered.

"I only wish they'd done that from the outset, the work could've been finished in half the time.

"It too soon to gauge what damage has been caused by the road closure but traders have definitely suffered. Just look at the florists - they lost so much trade on Valentine's Day and Mother's Day."

Kevin Nelmes, owner of Kingshill News and Booze, said: "It's been a long time since the road has been open. It's devastated traders.

"We just need to attract people back to the street now."

A spokesman for Severn Trent Water said the firm had tried to complete the work by causing as little disruption as possible.

She said: "Unfortunately, it was difficult to do this work without road blocks - we just hope it's a case of short-term pain for long-term gain."

The company is still doing repair work in Cam, although the roadworks have moved to Draycott, which is restricted by traffic lights.

The traders have decided to hold a St George's Day-themed party on April 22 to celebrate the re-opening of the road.

The event (10am-4pm) will feature roadside stalls and family games.

Mr Clutterbuck added: "The street will actually be open on the day of the party. We considered closing it - but closing down the street to celebrate its re-opening just seemed silly!"

For more information on the event contact Mr Clutterbuck on 01453 542754.